1 Developing the Dutch space sector Despite being a small country, the Netherlands is a relatively major player in the international space sector. That is the result of the clear choices we make and our investments in promising technology for the future. Just look at the ongoing development of small satellites, laser communication in space, new earth observation technology and schemes designed to stimulate startups with ambitions in space. We are currently reaping the benefits of the clear choices we made in the past. That is especially true this year, which marks one of the biggest milestones in Dutch space history.
Highlights
→ Launch of the Dutch robot arm ERA The European Robotic Arm was launched in the summer of 2021. This robot arm forms an important addition to the international space station ISS and represents an absolute milestone in Dutch space history. ERA was developed by a consortium of Dutch businesses and knowledge institutions led by Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands. The robot arm will be commissioned in the spring of 2022. European astronauts are training hard to learn to use this fine piece of Dutch high-tech engineering.
→ First satellite for Dutch Ministry of Defence
The Dutch military has taken its first concrete step into space. The BRIK-II satellite was launched on 30 June 2021. This is an experimental project by the Royal Netherlands Air Force, developed in collaboration with the Delftbased company Innovative Solutions in Space (ISIS) and Delft University of Technology. Defence Vision 2035 states that space has become an essential link in the information-based operations of our armed forces. For example, they make heavy use of navigation and communication systems. Now, a nanosatellite has been added to the Dutch arsenal. The launch is an initial test designed to demonstrate the potential of nanosatellites for military and civil uses.
→ Entrepreneurs challenged with SBIR technology
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The so-called SBIR technology scheme (Small Business Innovation Research) helps businesses position themselves commercially with the help of technology developed for ESA programmes. With the SBIR technology, NSO and ESA challenged entrepreneurs to develop new technology centred around a product or service (prototype) with applications in the space sector. The products must contribute to ESA's programmes and improve the market position of the Dutch space sector in the long term. In 2021, ten businesses received a subsidy to perform a feasibility study on their idea.
BRIK-II satellite Space Activities 2021 Netherlands Space Office
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